Roasted Bell Pepper Quinoa Recipe
Elevate your quinoa game with this vibrant and flavorful Roasted Bell Pepper Quinoa recipe. By combining pressure-cooked quinoa with a colorful mix of roasted bell peppers, garlic, rosemary, and a zesty splash of lemon juice, this dish transforms into a hearty, yet refreshing main course. The fresh, herby notes paired with the natural sweetness of roasted bell peppers create a delightful balance, making this dish a perfect addition to your high-protein vegetarian menu.
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Main Course
Diet: High Protein Vegetarian
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Quinoa | 1 cup |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Rosemary | 1 teaspoon |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, finely chopped |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, finely chopped |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Black Pepper Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon Juice | 1 teaspoon |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serving Size: 2-3 servings
Instructions
-
Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess starch. Once rinsed, set the quinoa aside. -
-
Cook the Quinoa in a Pressure Cooker
In a pressure cooker, combine the washed quinoa with 2 cups of water, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Stir the ingredients well, close the pressure cooker, and cook the quinoa for 4 whistles on medium heat. Once done, turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. -
Sauté the Aromatics
While the quinoa is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté until it turns a light golden brown. This will infuse the oil with a beautiful garlicky aroma. -
Cook the Bell Peppers
To the skillet, add 1 teaspoon of rosemary, finely chopped green and red bell peppers, and a pinch of salt. Sauté the bell peppers on high heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch. -
Season the Dish
Add 1 teaspoon of black pepper powder to the bell peppers, then remove the skillet from the heat. Stir to incorporate the spices evenly. -
Combine the Quinoa with Bell Peppers
Once the quinoa is cooked and the pressure has been released, transfer it to the skillet with the roasted bell peppers and garlic. Toss everything together to ensure the quinoa is well-coated with the fragrant bell pepper mixture. -
Add Lemon Juice
For a burst of freshness, squeeze 1 teaspoon of lemon juice over the quinoa and toss again. Taste the dish, adjust the seasoning if needed, and give it one final mix. -
Serve
Transfer the Roasted Bell Pepper Quinoa to a serving bowl and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.
Serving Suggestions
The Roasted Bell Pepper Quinoa can be served as a satisfying main dish or alongside other complementary dishes. Here are a few pairing suggestions:
- Tomato Basil Chicken Curry: A rich and creamy curry to balance the freshness of the quinoa.
- Jamaican Style Vegetarian Stew: A flavorful and hearty vegetarian stew that enhances the vibrant taste of the quinoa.
- Mustard Mayo Baby Potato Salad: A creamy side dish that adds a delightful contrast to the quinoa.
- Flourless Chili Chocolate Cake: End your meal with a decadent, spiced dessert, perfect when paired with a scoop of ice cream.
This Roasted Bell Pepper Quinoa is not just a delicious dish but also a great way to introduce more protein and vegetables into your diet while keeping your meals light, fresh, and satisfying. Enjoy!
